Staff Autonomy Integration Engineer

Bangalore · Onsite · Posted Oct 9, 2026

At a glance

Shield AI is seeking a Staff Autonomy Integration Engineer to join the team in Bangalore.
The role involves integrating autonomy software onto unmanned aircraft systems and supporting live flight operations.

Integrate autonomy software onto unmanned aircraft systems, ensuring seamless operation across onboard compute, sensors, and control interfaces.
Own the build, configuration, and validation process for flight-ready systems; coordinate hardware/software compatibility and mission readiness.
Travel to test sites and support live flight operations, including safety checks, system bring-up, and troubleshooting under time-critical constraints.
Diagnose and resolve integration issues across complex autonomy software stacks and embedded systems in lab and field environments.
Manage data collection during missions and post-test analysis, working with autonomy engineers to refine behaviors and identify improvements.
Work closely with autonomy, GNC, systems, and test teams to ensure mission-critical functionality is delivered on time and validated thoroughly.
Build tools and processes to improve integration timelines, flight test reliability, and team efficiency across deployment cycles.
Assist with documentation and system-level validation required for certification, airworthiness, and compliance in defense-relevant environments.

BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, and/or similar degree, or equivalent practical experience
Typically requires a minimum of 7 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 5 years and a Master’s degree; or 4 years with a PhD; or equivalent work experience.
Proficiency in programming languages such as C++ and Python, and familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS)
Proficiency in Linux-based development and experience working with embedded systems, shell scripting, and system diagnostics.
Knowledge of sensor integration, sensor fusion, and middleware frameworks (e.g., ROS, DDS).
Hands-on experience supporting flight demos or live exercises.
Experience with simulation tools and environments (e.g., AFSIM, NGTS) for testing and validation.
Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot and optimize system performance.
Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.

Direct experience supporting unmanned aerial systems or similar flight test campaigns.
Familiarity with autonomy stacks, flight control systems, or GNC pipelines.
Competence in sensor integration, electronics debugging, or avionics bring-up.
Proficiency in developing automation tools for system testing, logging, and data parsing.
Comfortable interfacing with government stakeholders during field events or technical reviews.
Experience with UCI and OMS Standards.

Members of this team typically travel around 30-40% of the year (to different office locations, customer sites, and flight integration events).